Washoe County seeks public feedback on COVID support efforts

Surveys will assist in formation of a recovery plan

COVID-19 cases are still surging, but Washoe County is seeking public input on how the pandemic has affected residents and businesses in order to formulate a recovery plan.  

The county and regional partners have issued two public surveys that will create the foundation for effective recovery planning. The surveys seek to understand financial, educational, social, and emotional impacts on the community, as well as employment and economic losses.  

“The time to plan for recovery is while we are still in the middle of a crisis so we are positioned and prepared to act as we transition to a new normal,” Kelly Echeverria, Washoe County recovery manager, said. “We need to hear from our business community and residents to understand how they’ve been affected and what support is most beneficial as we move beyond this pandemic.” 

Business owners are asked to take a survey specific to their needs and that address the issues of the economy and workforce. It explores the extent of business closures and reduced services, as well as the availability of remote operations and alternative resources for supplies.  

A second survey, specific to residents, focuses on the personal, financial, and social impacts of the pandemic. It gauges residents’ comfort level with activities like grocery shopping, dining out, attending events, and playing sports, and asks for feedback on concerns related to healthcare, social distancing, travel, and possible exposure to the virus.  

Gathering this information now as a regional effort enables the region to be a more resilient community in the future. It helps identify gaps in services and resources as well as remove duplications in effort so it is important that the survey be taken by as many residents and businesses as possible.  

To view and participate in the surveys, click here for businesses and here for residents. Spanish-language surveys are available here for businesses, and here for residents.  

Washoe County is seeking public participation in the surveys through November 30. The surveys may remain open longer as needed to gather wider input. 

For more information on the regional COVID-19 efforts, visit https://covid19washoe.com/.